Posts tagged ‘Skin Irritant’

In the cleaning industry Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS) is a common component of floor cleaners, engine degreasers, carwash soaps, etc. because it is corrosive and is efficient at cleaning greasy surfaces. This inexpensive detergent ingredient is commonly used in cosmetic cleansers, hair shampoos, toothpaste, shaving foams, shower gels, bubble baths etc because it is great at creating a dense lather.

As we grow up it is instilled in us through a desire for cleanliness and clever marketing that lots of lather is the sign of a good hygiene product, however this is a long way from the reality. You can cleanse without lather and natural products are capable of producing some lather with out SLS, so are you happy to let your family use these mainstream products?

What if you knew that SLS is used throughout the world for clinical testing as a primary skin irritant?

What if you knew that it was an ingredient of rat poison?

What if you knew that in the US, toothpaste has a medical warning stating that if your child uses more than a pea sized amount and there is any risk that they have swallowed any of the paste, they should seek medical attention immediately?

A study at the Medical College of Georgia , indicated that SLS penetrated into the eyes as well as brain, heart, liver, lungs, etc., and suggested that it could be a cause of corneal damage and cataracts.

SLS is harmful to skin and hair as it is corrosive and removes lipids causing rashes and dryness and is thought to attack hair follicles. The Journal of the American College of Toxicology notes that this ingredient has a “degenerative effect on the cell membranes because of its protein denaturing properties.”

Although sodium lauryl sulphate has not been found to be carcinogenic, it has been shown that it causes severe epidermal changes in the area it is applied, indicating a need for tumour-enhancing assays.

Whilst most of the research conducted only provides ‘suggestive evidence’ you as a consumer have the right to choose products without harmful substances. I urge you to look at some of the every day products in your bathroom, you will be surprised at how many mainstream brands are using chemicals to ‘enhance’ their products without providing us with the right education to make an informed decision. In Germany a concerted effort is being made to label products as ‘certified natural’ i.e do not contain SLS or similar chemicals such as ammonium lauryl sulphate and sodium laureth sulphate.

Please think of your health and that of your family next time you purchase a cosmetic or personal care product from a general retailer. Remember, the higher up the list of ingredients a chemical is, the higher proportion it contains.

The information contained in this blog illustrates my opinions and experiences,it does not constitute medical advice and I do not accept responsibility for actions taken or refrained from as a result of reading this blog.